I'M THE BOSS!

The subject is clout, and how it's acquired. ``Julia [of Asleep in a Heap, 1993] was not the boss of anything or anybody and she didn't like it.'' Her parents tell her what to eat; her big sister orders her to scram; even her toddler sib hollers when she feels imposed on. Julia tries dressing like a grownup and giving orders; then she wears a ``boss'' sign and shouts. Neither garners respect. Even Mom's pacific proposal that Julia be the family's ``little boss'' backfires. However, quite accidentally, Julia finds that the family's cuddly puppy will sit, heel, or lie down on command—at least sometimes, and especially if he's rewarded with hugs. Winthrop has neatly distilled an awesome topic: power in family relationships. Even young children may begin to grasp the idea that power (and hence identity) grows from responsibility; and also that it helps to be on the receiving end of unconditional affection. Morgan's lively portrayal of the self-assured Julia augments the humor. Delightful. (Picture book. 2-6)